The Commonwealth Oral History Project, funded by the UK’s Arts and Humanities Research Council, has resulted in a unique digital research resource for the oral history of the Commonwealth since 1965. Over 60 major interviews with leading Commonwealth actors are included in the database. The project is an essential research tool for anyone investigating the history of the Commonwealth. The project also lays the foundation for enabling researchers to reconcile the official, recorded history of the Commonwealth and the unofficial history, which has been, until now, unrecorded. A wide range of individuals have been interviewed on the evolution of the Commonwealth and its activities since the establishment of the Commonwealth Secretariat in 1965 – including politicians, diplomats, and civil servants.

The launch of the Commonwealth Oral History Project will take place on 26 November 2015; the event will explore the lessons from the past which have been uncovered during this research project, and how the Commonwealth can use these lessons as an organisation going forward. Professor Philip Murphy, Director of the Institute of Commonwealth Studies, and Dr Sue Onslow, Co-Investigator for the Commonwealth Oral History Project and Senior Lecturer in Commonwealth Studies, will discuss the project. The launch will be followed by a reception. This event is open to anyone interested in attending but it is strongly advised to book in advance.